The family of a former Derry City and Glenavon striker have appealed for help to back his fight against cancer.

Mark Farren recently underwent a third brain tumour operation.

The 33-year-old's family are desperate to raise £25,000 to enable him to travel to a specialist cancer centre in Germany.

More than 80% of Mark's tumour was removed during the most recent operation.

In a statement, his family said: "After six years of fighting against a life-threatening condition, Derry City legend Mark Farren needs our help.

"Mark's third surgery took place a month ago and surgeons removed 80 to 90% of a tumour.

"The invasive nature of the procedure has had a stunting effect on his speech and mobility.

"The biopsy which followed has indicated that the tumour is a grade 4, meaning it’s highly aggressive.

"Being no stranger to thinking outside the box, Mark is seeking medical assistance from an elite cancer centre in Germany.

"The six week treatment programme is his best chance of saving or at least prolonging his life. Treatment will cost approximately €30,000.

"This is the one goal with which Mark needs our help, any contribution is greatly appreciated.

"Over the coming weeks there will be a number of fundraising activities led by Mark’s former teammates, Kevin McHugh, Ruaidhri Higgins and Ciaran Martyn, along with PFA Ireland, and other sporting bodies, including Mark’s former clubs Derry City and Glenavon."

Mark's former Derry City team-mate and current Republic of Ireland international James McClean was reported to have pledged £1,000 to the fund with almost £7,000 in donations received so far.

Mark is Derry City's record goal scorer. He joined Glenavon in 2013.

Despite being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2008 he continued to play football.

But he was forced to stop playing in 2013 in order to undergo further surgery.